Paul Wallis's tributes
Name: Holly Page
Country: United Kingdom
Comments: Listening to Mark Radcliffe who just announced it's 25 years since the Levellers released "Levelling the Land". Instantly thought of you. I hope that somewhere you are still dancing away to "One Way"
Country: UK
Comments: To Paul's family and good friends. I apologise for not indicating who wrote the previous seemingly out of place message. I didn't want there to be any mystery. My name is Rob and I was in some of Paul's social groups during his first year at Aston but drifted out of contact with people shortly afterwards. Please take my tribute in the spirit intended (rather than the execution) and I hope it just underlines that Paul is fondly remembered by those who only briefly met him and even after these many years.
Country: UK
Comments: Hey Shaggy. I’ve spent most of today pondering whether I can positively contribute to your tribute page which I only came across this morning after experiencing quite a vivid dream which then resulted in some avid internet searching (I was a bit strange in the past and nothing changes!). I only knew you for a brief while whilst I was at Aston (I technically dropped out in the second year) but I hope that your nearest and dearest can see that it is a measure of what type of man you were that I feel compelled to write something even now. Reading other people’s memories of you has put my fleeting glimpses of one chapter of your life into clearer perspective and have helped reinforce my opinion of what a special person you were. Your boundless levels of positive eager enthusiasm were something to behold and you had a sage like charisma that I see echoes of in the actor Owen Wilson (the long blonde hair you had at Aston probably aids in the comparison). I saw many examples of your blagging ability that other people have noted – for me, getting an old crustie into a club even after the bouncers had refused him entry and being the official spoon player for Tending to Jasmine at the May Ball (and thus getting guaranteed free entry) are two examples that personally stand out. Going to see The Levellers in Paris is also a fond memory of mine and I will be forever grateful that you assisted my escape from the little French boy who held onto me shouting “Monsieur, Monsieur” asking for money whilst a gang land style handler was lurking ten paces behind him. I wasn’t in contact with many people from Aston after leaving and it was only in 2006 that I learned that you had passed away. Like many others have written you left an indelible mark on people’s lives and memories and I am glad that I met you. I would only be a very small footnote on one of the many, many pages of your life story but please know that you burned brightly in my world at Aston. I’m just sorry that it has taken me so long to articulate anything. Shaggy, you were and always will be a star. :)
Name: Mark
Country: UK
Comments: Sitting at work educating the young 'uns about the joys of The Pogues when Dirty Old Town came on. I thought of you and shed a tear or two. Will drink a whisky or two to you tonight, old friend.
Name: Tom
Comments: Aston's 50th anniversary celebrations this weekend. At least two toasts to you - one of them in the Guild. No cheeky ones upstairs though... ;-) Rocking on, brother.
THC
Name: Lyn Jennings
Country: UK
Comments: Happy 41st birthday to my forever young son. In my heart always. Love you. Mum xx
Name: Lisa
Country: Uk
Comments: Happy Birthday to my forever young big brother xxx hope you are looking after Nanny. Love and miss you every day xxx
Name: Mal
Country: United Kingdom
Comments: Was thinking about you the other day and feeling sad you are not around any more. we last saw eath other in the beer garden of the Chase Inn in West Malvern on a lovely sunny afternoon.
Comments: Thinking about you a lot this week and missing you always. Can't believe it will be ten years tomorrow since you left us. That makes me realise just how young you were. Nice to think of you having a pint with Grandad! Love you xxxx
Name: Tom
Comments: September 2013. Hello mate, it's been a while. Just spent half an hour on a languid Friday afternoon thinking about you, but then your name crops up often when there are two or more of us old-schoolers together. And tomorrow there will be more still - a load of the Astonauts, families in tow, will be meeting up for a 20th year reunion. We'll drink and dance and laugh in your memory and plan how we're going to celebrate your 40th - not long now. Love as always brother. THC x
Name: Lou
Country: Britain
Comments: Just looking through emails to sort out old ones still can't delete the last one you sent. Always think of you when I hear Bob. Date Nov 2012.
Name: annie
Country: UK
Comments: can't believe 9 years have gone by. Still thinking of you. Will always regret not coming out to see you in Thailand. Xxx
Name: annie
Country: UK
Comments: Can't believe 9 years have gone by. Still thinking of you Xxx
Country: Uk
Comments: Happy birthday dearest brother. Hope you're enjoying a cheeky drink or two. Miss you xxxx
Country: UK
Comments: I think about you often my son and you were uppermost in my thoughts in August when your sister got married. It was a truly magical, memorable day and how i wished you could have been with us. You and your Grandad were both mentioned in the speeches and glasses were raised in memory of two very special people. Love you always. Mum xx
Name: David
Comments: He would have been 36 on Saturday. Thought a lot about him on my drive up North and back.
RIP
Name: David
Comments: He would have been 36 on Saturday. Thought a lot about him on my drive up North and back.
RIP
Comments: I'm not sure what to write today, I just really want to talk to you. I'm getting married in August, it's such an exciting time right now!! Things are going very well in my life. As much as I am looking forward to my wedding day and the future, I am truly devasted that you will not be there. I'm not quite sure how to deal with it and often sit and wish you could come back, even if it's just for the one day. I would give anything to see you again and to have a big hug. I miss you so much. In a funny way I miss you more now than ever. I guess as I am getting older I realise how young you were to leave us. You will be a big part of my thoughts on my special day and I promise to have a drink for you. Love you xxx
Name: sarah (nee Wood)
Country: Laos
Comments: Just seen a guy who looked like you on TV, Paul, and started thinking about you and how I had never written you a message back in 2003. Here it is 6 years later I am ashamed to say. You were a very fun part of my life when we were young, having random field parties in the middle of nowhere and I always loved seeing you as we grew up and reminisced. I still have all yr letters when we were away at uni and will forever remember yr cheeky grin when you would say, "Hi Sarah, how is your mum?"
wherever you are now - lots of love and sorry it took me so long to find this website and write you a message matey
sarah xxxxx
Comments: Off to the Jam tomorrow for a spot of Dave Clarke. I'm too old for all this now, but still love it like we did back in the day. There'll be a Shagster-sized gap on the dancefloor, the one picked out by the emerging light at 6am.
Love you brother.
THC x
Comments: Before leaving get to the bar
No one round here makes you pay
Never very good at goodbyes
So gentle shoulder charge
Love you mate
Name: P
Country: England
Comments: Off to Thailand in a while, will pour another beer in the Khlong for you. "Singha beer don't ask no questions..."
Thinking of you often my brother. Px
17th October 2007
Name: James in Thailand
Country: Thailand
Comments: Mate, been 4 years without you here to share my rants as well as my hangovers. I still dont know how our lives would have been different had we continued with our plans to take over Nakhon Pathom. Still, as October comes ever closer so do my thoughts return to all those moments we had over here and how we were truely happy in our lives. Can't be said for everyone! And I will never forget that we inspired eachother to succeed in such a strange and beautiful land.
Life without you will always be 'same same but different' as we say in Thinglish. Miss you buddy :)
Country: This England
Comments: Still in our thoughts. There is a light that will never go out.
But Manzils? Bloody Manzils?
Ah well. See you in the Autumn.
Name: Claire P (Churchward in the old days)
Country: UK
Comments: Just thinking of you Shaggy, I'll always have a tale or few to tell my future grandchildren about.... x
Name: Sigs
Country: Japan
Comments: Shags, you got a mention at my wedding this year - one from my Dad who described the pile of beer cans in you room when I stayed at your house in Aston many many years ago and one from me, because I wished you'd been there.
Happy New Year to everyone who reads this site. 2007.
Name: Tom
Comments: Hello chief, happy birthday. Jan, Laura J and I raised a glass for you on Saturday - how sedate and how unlike the old days! Still, we're growing old - unlike you, who remains forever young. God bless you Shags and thanks for the memories. THC x
Name: Dave5n
Comments: Three years! Seems like forever and it seems like just yesterday.
Always missed, never forgotten.
Me 'n' Rich off for beers and to Manzil's tonight. We'll raise a pint and a Naan (i)in memoriam (/i)
Name: fred
Country: france
Comments: we have just talked about you two days ago with arnaud,...thinking about which part of the world you were..
and this news now.. , almost three years after..hard to believe this.
Shaggy boy !!! O "cousin"
luv you mate
fred
Name: Noar
Country: France
Comments: Lyon, 9 August 2006.
First, all my thoughts to Paul's family and very close friends.
I met him at Sup de Co Marseille.
We only spent one year together but it seems we had known each other forever. Nothing exceptional with a guy like Paul, but even if we hadn't met for at least 7 years, I often thought about him as a real friend. He was always so happy... It was 11 years ago. I can't believe it, but it seems to be true,he's left us.
I just want to tell one image : I tried to teach him to say the sound "u" in french, and I'll always remember how he laughed as he never could.
He was also the only englishman who spoke french with an "accent marseillais", and I swear it was great.
Shaggy, I'll remember you.
Name: Sigsy
Country: Japan
Comments: A very 'Happy New Year' to all the people who read this site. Look after yourselves. Love Sigs
Name: Dave 5N
Country: England
Comments: Elephants never forget: elephant rides are never forgotten.
And we still have a Shaggy-shaped hole in our lives.
Name: Tom
Country: UK
Comments: Monday 14 November 2005. Happy birthday chief. You're never too far away in my thoughts each day but today of all days your presence is close. Here's to all the good times, the laughter and the sheer unbridled hedonism. Shine on, you crazy Diamond. THC x
Name: aeron
Country: uk
Comments: U were a real character at aston!! will never forget those days!!!!! Freakers and freshers week especially!! THANKS SHAGGY!!!!!! XXXAeron xxxx
Country: USA
Comments: Time flies by and the world moves on, but you are forever at the back of my mind and always, always in my heart. Miss you x x
Country: Japan
Comments: I can still hear your laugh! I've been thinking about you a lot recently as I've just left Bangkok and have been thinking about how much easier you made settling back in there for me. I miss you and your orange trousers and beer o'clock. (And I named a game after you - Fifty Slaps!) Can't believe it's been 2 years. Love always mate, xx
Country: Japan
Comments: There will be a celebration around the time of Shaggy's birthday. Bex Cole is the girl to get in touch with. Let's continue to remember our lovely friend.
Country: UK
Comments: It's almost two years since you left us - time flies and we all move on with our lives - but you are definitely not forgotten.
You're still one in a million and missed very much.
Name: Yan Picou-Laporte
Country: France
Comments: Just a word to let you know that i am still thinking of you...Keep the style and live the dream!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I just read a sentence which reminds you: "It is nice to be important, but it is more important to be nice!"
See you mate
Yan
Name: Lee Powell
Country: England
Comments: Shaggy, you are a Dude. I remember standing at the top of the Aston Student's Guild steps in the 1996 Fresher Week with Shaggy because I was one of the first to arrive, you were totally made up but a bit freaked out because there were 400+ freshers waiting for the pub crawl you organised! I remember you said you were only expecting about 20 people! I think it was the biggest pub crawl in the history of Aston. It didn't freak you out for long, man. You got a megaphone and shouted out orders to the small army of 'Aunties' to take groups of beer hungry Freshers around to the Square Peg, Scruffy Murphys, Sack of Potatoes, etc. Always a friendly face, time for everyone, intelligent and incredibly funny, I think everyone at Aston knew you. Just found out today that you died. No one dies completely - life will go on in the minds of thousands of people who were lucky enough to know you. Well done for all the stuff you did - you helped make Aston some of the best years of my life!!
Name: Rik Pipe
Country: UK
Comments: A great bloke, a great loss. Hard to believe he is not still out there somewhere.
Name: Mo Edwards
Country: UK
Comments: Shagstar...you will always have a place in my heart mate. It's only now that after your birthday that I'm finally ready to write anything, just so shocked that larger-than-life-you aren't here anymore. You made my time at Warwick so entertaining! So many good and lively memories that I find myself smiling about out of the blue. You used to call me 'Mistress Mo' and your rants down the phone in french had me in secret hysterics. Sitting behind you all those months and I witnessed a lot of shaggyisms, you're a one-off that's for sure. Homelands 2000 was great, particularly as I was going through a traumatic time back then - it was good to go mad and have fun and forget the real world for a bit. Cheeky face in the crowded tent. I always so looked forward to getting your emails. I also never doubted that one day I'd get to go see you in Thailand, however far in the future that may be. Well Shaggy, guess what, I finally get to go to Thailand and you're not going to be out there and I'm gutted...I'd always planned to go marching up, tap you on the shoulder and say "hey Shaggy, how're you doin', fancy a beer?! Mistress Mo here!". Well I'll just have to go to Nakhom Pathom instead and have a bit of a word with you about that Shagstar. What you doing going swanning off like this!!!?! :-) You are a true star and I am a richer person for having known you, shine on and save a place for me x x x
Name: Tom Sheehan
Country: UK, Nov '04.
Comments: Shagster you old diamond, we celebrated your birthday last week in great style mate, you've quite beautifully managed to gel us all together in your old particular idium! Unfortunately i managed to top me night off by gashing me head open but that would not have surprised you and will remain a fond memory just like yourself me old mucker. Love to you and all those who joined in that night, we shall be doing it again in your tribute, oh yes.
Skanky.
Name: Snail
Country: UK
Comments: Mate - just a quickie to say that you were sorely missed at Jojo's and my recent wedding on the 23rd October. I toasted you in my speech as I would have loved for you to have been there but the powers that be dictated otherwise. Forever strong in our hearts and minds mate. Live the dream.
Name: Lyn Jennings
Country: UK
Comments: Paul, the acceptance of your passing may be there, but the pain is as raw today as it was a year ago. I miss so much about you, your calls of 'Hi Mum, guess what I have a little problem, can you help? to your e-mails of your latest exploit/journey that were so entertaining. I am so glad that I have kept all the ones that you sent in the past as they can uplift me on a down day.
At the end of October your sister Lisa had her graduation ceremony. That was a very poignant day, it bought back so many memories. I know you would have been so proud of her as we all are, knowing what she had been through. She is happily teaching little ones, just like you did.
So many of your friends have kept in touch over the year and they all got together in London to celebrate your birthday.
James,in Thailand has been a tower of strength for us and with his help a beautiful Sala is now in place in your school in Nakhom Pathom. It is a fitting memorial to a special person who touched so many peoples lives. I love you and am so proud to be your mum and will hold you in my heart always. Mum xx
Name: Tom and Jan
Comments: Happy birthday brother. Thinking of you now and always. With love. T & J xx
Comments: Happy birthday brother. Thinking of you now and always. With love. T & J xx
Name: David Wallis
Country: USA
Comments: Paul, I am sure that you would love the Sala that has been built at the school where you taught, it is superb. Pictures are shown in the memorial section and were taken by your good friend James. Without whose help it would never have been built. This should have been your 31st birthday but its not. Tears are streaming down my face while I am trying to type, I still miss you like hell.
Dad
Name: Sigsy
Country: Japan
Comments: Haven't forgotten you Shags, haven't forgotten the breathtaking pain of finding out about all this a year ago and, most of all, haven't forgotten how super and wonderful you are, you cheeky half little flirty friend you.
To all the people who read this site - take care!
Sigs
Name: Antony Marcou
Country: England
Comments: Well mate it's been a year and only now do I feel ready to write anything on here. Perhaps I don't want to accept that you've gone. They say time makes things easier, and in many ways the pain has eased, but I still miss you, as we all do. Every once in a while you pop into my head and I remember your passion for life, and that makes me smile. You touched so many people.
I have got so much to say. I want to thank you for all the laughs we had. Your approach to life has ensured I do not take things too seriously. Our time working together as sabbatical officers will always represent a time in my life when I felt we could make anything happen. Living and working with people is often a recipe for disaster, but I cannot remember one cross word.
Helen and I were looking at our wedding album recently, and seeing your face in the photos, we felt blessed that you had made the effort to make the trip back to the UK to celebrate our big day. I love you for that.
Our time in Thailand last summer was so very special. Whenever people go to Bangkok, they say they would never go back. You showed us the side tourists never see. Those days in Bangkok and in "your province" Nahkon Pathom were wonderful, and days I will never forget. The elephant walking past, while supping on a Chang beer.
We could not be at your memorial service in Thailand, but the service at Aston was something else. You would have been proud. The rendition of "we love you shaggy we do" sung in a packed Manzils was something that, I'm sure would have made you laugh. At the party in Digbeth, I could feel you there, drinking and dancing with us, saying goodbye for one last time.
Since then, Helen and I have the joy of a baby boy. Your passing, put life into perspective, and something we were talking about for a while, we just got on with. We have so many aspirations for Jasper, but if he can develop a passion for life, like yours, we will be very proud.
I hope that somewhere we will meet again. I still feel robbed that I will not see you again. That said I am so grateful to have spent so much time with you, and be able to call you, Paul "Shaggy" Wallis, my friend.
Bye for now buddy.
Name: Brett
Country: Australia
Comments: Like others, it has taken me a long time to reach a point where I am comfortable writing about Shaggy's passing. I still remember as if it was yesterday the Saturday night at James' house when I heard the terrible news. My first reaction was "bullshit, that can't be right." I also remember with fondness first meeting Shaggy through James. James:"This is Shaggy" Shaggy:"'ello captain, fancy a chang?" …haze… next morning hangover after a full round of Nakhon Pathom (Steak 29, Tisa, 123, Modern High etc). Shaggy is the most larger-than-life character I have ever met, and I doubt I will ever meet anyone like him again. He seemed utterly indestructible, everything was done at 110%, whether it was working or partying, but a definite emphasis on the latter. All those times I thought I was stuffed, but Shaggy's enthusiasm for life was so infectious it just made you want to keep going. He was inspirational, a brilliant teacher and a great mate. To Shaggy’s family and Pat, my heartfelt condolences. To Shaggy: Thanks for the memories, sneaky bifters, advice and friendship, and when my time down here is over, I’m looking forward to joining you in an eternal session of cheeky ones.
Name: Tim H
Country: England
Comments: March 1st 2004. Time has moved on, but the memories are still as vivid as ever of our visits to Thailand. We were lucky enough to see the places that were special to Shaggy, and of course dear Pat. The children from Shaggy's class clubbed together and bought 'some medicine' - a present to help him in the afterlife. Seeing this great man for a second time would be something really special. Rothia and I are so grateful for our times together, you will never be forgotten mate - but I think you already knew that. All our love forever, Tim and Rothia xx
Name: Karim
Country: UK
Comments: I would like to pay tribute to someone special, who I knew in Marseilles, and Aston university.
Great moments were spent in both cities.
Paul, you will always be remembered.
Name: Ross
Country: Thailand
Comments: Arriving late, but I guess Shaggy wouldn't expect anything less from me. As my boss (in name only) in Nakhon Pathom he would regularly turn a blind eye to me sprinting into school 2 minutes before I started teaching. Mainly because he'd only just arrived himself...the pair of us suffering from yet another heavy night on the 'Nakhon Circuit': Steak 29, Big Window, Cocktail Bar, 123, Modern High and then Tisa. The circuit seems empty without you skipper...as are the cash registers in the bars now! Having been the one who talked me into the Nakhon move in the first place, all I can say is that his passing has left a huge hole in life here. I can only imagine how large that hole is for Pat and his family and I hope you find comfort in the so many happy memories Shaggy has undoubtedly left behind...in all those who knew him. I thank him for all those good times and for all he taught me about teaching, about Thailand and about life. Thanks to those teachings you can rest assured, Shagstar, that your kids (who doted on you) remain in good hands. "Fancy a cheeky one, captain?" Of course you do. I'll bring the Spey Royal when next we meet. Take care. We miss you.
Name: Bexster Cole
Country: UK
Comments: 28th December 2003 Oh, I've been putting this moment off again and again but here comes the time, sitting in the mountains with snow falling outside and a moment's peace to write about/to my dear old Shagster. I have known the man for 10 years and went out with him for 6 1/2 of them, so we shared a lot of memories. Remember your long golden hair, rosy cheeks and grin, Einstein's drunken nights, Amsterdam for your 21st, hitching to surprise me for my birthday to Switzerland, the escapades in Marseille, travelling around Turkey, holidaying in Gran Canaria, pastis, snakey b's, curries to mention but a few. His 'joie de vivre', ranting and ravings, love and madness will be sorely missed. The news also had an effect on my parents and especially my sister. He introduced her to the rituals of university life at a young age and she looked at him as a brother with his big 'bear' hugs. The one positive thing that has come out of this, is that he has brought me back together with old friends - how apt! I thank you Shaggy and I thank you for the many great and unforgettable times shared together. Memories I will talk about and cherish forever. We all miss you and love you very much. Are your ears burning yet? Love ya Shagster xxx
Name: Boogie Dave
Country: UK
Comments: So many words have been written here about Shaggy, so many peolpe from so many places around the planet............ was a truly great person to have had such an impact.
I have many hazy memories of crazy parties and crazy conversations, I read some of his messages from the East sat at this very computer and to think I am now writing this is just surreal. All of us have something of Shaggy that can never be taken away from us, our memories. Thanks for those, Shaggy.
Name: Seth Silberner
Country: USA
Comments: It's taken awhile to get to the stage where I could write this. Somehow, the longer you leave it, the harder it is to know what to say. Kept thinking about all the adventures, all the madness. What adequate tribute could I write? What could I tell people about my times with Paul ,that hasn't been said a thousand times about how wonderful a person he was? Nothing, so I won't say anymore about him. No stories, no quotes. Just a personal message straight to Shaggy himslef: You were my friend, I'll never stop loving you, never stop missing you, and never stop learning from you, thank you for being in my life.
Name: Dom Barrett
Country: UK
Comments: To Wally-Wal - the most creative left-back I ever played with (and with the worst running style!). I am pleased I got to see you again at the reunion in 2000 having not seen you for 8 years. Although we were never close and moved in different circles, I always admired your love for life and common decency that you don't find much these days (although some of those tackles you put in were hardly pleasantries!). I bet you were seriously good at what you did and had a great time doing it. My thoughts are with your family and friends. Safe journey mate, see you again. The Sweetcorn Man
Name: Peter Currie
Country: Scotland
Comments: Man, this is hard, I lived and worked with paul in Thailand for a year and a half. Paul arrived the day before me and we were both looking for accomodation. After an afternoons faffing and having seen about 30 cockroach infested hovels we finally found a place with 2 rooms and a pool. The job was a good un. To celebrate the fact we went to a for a beer. Country Rd was to be paul and I's office for the next 18 months. Happy hour 5.30 to 7, everyone knew where we would be. Arguing over bar bills, beer tokens and prawn crackers with the staff. I'm still not sure Paul was in the right half the time, but by the end we always got the beers paul felt we had paid for.
We watched the world go by from inside the cocoon that is thailand. Paul felt safe there, and he alway said he would stay for the rest of his life. Who knew it would be so short.
Anyway mate, I will always remember you, and I hope you have a beer for me in that big Country Road in the sky. Keep us a bar stool.
Name: Josef Feiven
Country: England
Comments: I like the postcards you sent me from Thailand and the frog. Thank you for the elephant rides. I am missing you Uncle Shaggy.
Name: Charlotte Weston
Country: UK
Comments: I worked with Shaggy at Aston and Warwick. Because I didn't actually work for the union, it was hard for me to get to know people, but Shaggy really made an effort to let me 'join the crowd'. When we were in Coventry, I split up with my boyfriend and Shaggy ALWAYS made sure I had an invitation to those after work drinks. Usually I'd end up driving back from Birmingham with him crashed out snooring loudly on the back seat. Shaggy was a kind and generous man (despite the infamous 'I'm not interested in your problems!'), and although our paths probably wouldn't have crossed again, I won't forget that kindness. He really was the epitome of life, and reading everyone's tributes has really made me smile - which is very fitting. It was great to know him, and he won't be forgotten...
Name: Lyn Jennings
Country: England
Comments: On behalf of all of Shaggys family, I wish to extend our sincere thanks to each and everyone of you that attended the memorial services in Bangkok and at Aston.
The love and affection, shown by you all for Shaggy helped us all through this very difficult time.
To see so many people from such different walks of life, celebrating Shaggys life together, was a testament to his ability to socialise and treat people as he wished to be treated. No greater compliment can have been paid, and for this we thank you.
The collection raised an enormous amount of monies, in the region of £750. Again, a magnificent gesture from you all, thank you.
All your tributes have been a great source of comfort and an insight into another part of Shaggys life. We have laughed and cried in turn at all the memories.
If any of you pass through Northamptonshire at any time, please feel free to call in, it would be lovely to see you again.
Name: Tom Jumar
Country: UK
Comments: I feel lucky to have known shaggy, he was a real friend, one of those people who no matter when or where you met him would always be Shaggy. No front, no Pretensions just a true star. You're deeply missed. But don't worry brother I'll still be having a few cheeky ones with you wherever you are.
Name: Shifty ( Paul Kettle )
Country: UK
Comments: Shaggy WAS Aston University for many people - the two things synonymous. Despite losing touch, Mick & Tom have kept me informed of his shannanigans over the last 5 years or so and, ultimately, of his passing. There's one more star in the sky now. RIP.
Name: mick
Country: england
Comments: Shaggy, what a fella!! In his short life the boy achieved so much! Always surrounded by so many people, so many friends. Everyone knew shaggy for the right reasons (apart maybe from a few disciplinarians over the years). His love of life was so evident to all who knew him (see below)… we all have so many good memories of good times… uni, glasters, quo vadis, the jam (ouch)… always time for a few cheekies down the shake!! So he could make a run for the last train, which was invariably missed. “Mate, could I kip on your sofa tonight?” Shaggy you were one in a million, a shining light. You are already missed mate!! I think we owe you the bender to end all benders. That’s what you would have done, guaranteed! Your memories are with us!! Be good!!!
Country: England
Comments: Shaggy, no one has ever twisted my nipples with such drunken accuracy. God bless ya.
Name: Louise Gage (now Attewell)
Country: England
Comments: I wasn't as close to Shaggy as so many others were but shared a house with him, Ben and Jane in Aston in our second year. He was always out socialising and boozing. When I remember Shaggy I think mass of blond hair, Merrydown cider, madly dancing to the Levellers and that oh so sexy voice of the woman from The Orb singing Little Fluffy Clouds. How many times did we hear that song? I've listened to it a few more times since I heard you're gone. I, like everyone else, am glad that I knew you. Everytime I think Shaggy, despite the tears, I can't help having a small smile thinking of your big smile and hugs.
Love always Louise xxxx
Name: Natalie
Country: Thailand
Comments: I met Paul nearly 3 years ago.. i had just started working at Fun Language in Bangkok..and was sent out on my first day to observe Paul teaching....JEEZZZEEE... the kids were all over him.. they couldn't get enough of him, by the end of the lesson Paul was underneath about 20 kids who insisted on him becoming their climbing frame!! Seeing him in action, I know that this was his dream job. He loved his work.. how many people can say that.
We were lucky to have him at Fun Language. He will be missed by us all here in Thailand, especially that bloody grin! CYA Captain! x
Name: Claire
Country: UK
Comments: You lit up a corner or my life that is forever yours.I didnt know you long but it felt like all my life. I am so proud of you for being so brave and accepting , so relaxed and fun ,so very you. For having the guts to follow your dreams and being part of our family, as we are of yours.Thank you for the laughs ,stories and shared memories of home. Will miss you always little brother. Claire , Neal and Ethan xx
Name: James Barrett
Country: Ghana
Comments: When an old acquaintance (he was not exactly a close friend) from school dies it makes you feel tremendously mortal.
Anyway - something needs recording. Paul was at the centre of what was probably one of the funniest nights of my life, when we were all prefects at Wellingborough School. The HeadMaster (Plank) used to invite all the 6th form prefects for a perfectly civilised meal once a term. Of course, arrangements were made to meet a good hour earlier at the Golden Lion and much drink was consumed, especially by Paul who got stuck in biblical style.
More wine (red - definately red) was consumed at the Head's house and around 9:00 Paul was beginning to look distinctly pale. I remember him seated for dinner in Planks kitchen where he had been flirting with the Headmasters wife, when he rose to his feet, made a dash for the door, fell over the washing machine, valiantly rose to his feet again, and headed for the toilet. He nearly made it. I'll never forgot the sight of him spewing red wine exorcist style all over the beautiful white-washed hall. We tried to cover it up as best as we could, but it was clear to even the most thick-skinned teacher that the man was not well.
We chose to sit him in the living room whilst some of us bravely dealt with the Head. This proved to be a mistake. The living room carpet was a deep-pile cream Wilton affair. After several minutes (for some reason, I was left baby-sitting Paul), he rose to his feet, put his hands around his mouth, spewed again and attempted to throw it in the fire. Missed. All over the carpet which developed a strange dark red pattern. I can't really remember the rest of the night, but I gather that Paul was taken home somehow.
I hadn't spoken to him since I left school, but I'm sure he'd be very proud of the memories I keep. Rest in peace old boy.
Country: England
Comments: I was just thinking of you the other day Shagster - I had just given birth to my son in Harlow hospital and remembered how you had been born there too. I had no idea at the time that you had already gone. I have so many fond memories of you and am so grateful to have known you. Hope you are still grinning that manic grin somewhere!!
lots of love xxxxxxxx
Name: Helen
Country: England
Comments: Dear Shaggy, thank you for working at Warwick at the same time as I did. You always had time for a fag and a chat despite being busier than the rest of us! I will remember on your decks at the house in Earsldon playing the Aloof after another mad night...you are one of those people that come into your life and you never forget. With love, helen Cx
Name: Joachim
Country: Hong Kong
Comments: Paul was a great guy. What else can be said?. he was warm, loving, funny, considerate, interesting, intelligent, genuine and I have never, ever heard a word said against him. He will be sorely missed by his friends, family and students. My love and prayers are with you who knew him better than me. Take it easy, Paul.
Name: Jonesy
Comments: Shaggy was such a lovely fella, he always had me smiling everytime I saw him. He will remain young in all our memories and will not be forgotten. I was proud to know him... x
Name: Sophie Timms
Country: UK
Comments: I was truly gobsmacked when I heard the news because it was only a little while since I read his update on Friends Reunited and thought how cool (and how Paul) it was that he was still living in Thailand.
The last time I saw Paul was at the London reunion of the Wellingborough School 'Class of '92' back in November 2000. I hadn't seen him since a Christmas session down 'the Brit' in Northampton a few years earlier and so it was excellent to catch up. On the following Monday morning he sent me an e-mail which, when I looked today, was the first one stored in my 'school' e-mail folder. His comments went, as follows:
"Oi oi!
Good effort on Saturday - bit of a mad one to say the least. How was the club thing? I ended up rather twisted in some sketchy illegal bar/taxi joint that got busted at 6am... which was nice. Guess I'll probably catch up with
some of you characters in home territories over the Christmas break.
Can we not go to the Brit - I know it's tradition - but so's the Queen...
Have fun freakers.
Wally Wal
x
From reading the other tributes, I can see that this was 'business as usual' for Paul and I'm only sorry that I didn't keep in touch following the reunion. Anyway, Paul, sending you my apologies now and will raise a toast to you at the next bash. God bless you, mate. Love Soph x
Name: Chris Sleight
Comments: My memories of Shaggy are both happy and hazy. I will always remember his laughter, kind nature, good humour, intelligence and above all, his ability to enjoy life to the full. I feel a great loss at his passing, but at the same time happy to have shared good times with such a unique and genuine human being. Easy fella.
Name: Helen
Country: England
Comments: Shaggy was one of the first people I met at Aston as I was lucky enough to share the 4th floor of Stafford Tower with him in my first year.
Despite never once washing up in 12 months and giving me a run for my money with his strops he was a fantastic friend and I only wish we'd stayed in touch once he'd gone to Thailand.
Shaggy I'll remember you for lots of things: Pastis, introducing me to Northern Exposure,constructing enormous hooters!,Snakey B to name but a few. So Shaggy "I'm not interested in your problems" Wallis, i'll miss you and I know that wherever your are it's a good place. All my love Helen xxxx
Name: Matt Ross
Country: UK
Comments: These eulogies say it all – Shaggy’s was a character that lit up the landscape. He had such great warmth, such natural generosity, such a giving, fun-loving approach to life and those around him, that none of us who met him will ever forget him. All of our lives are emptier for his loss; Paul was a man who really, really understood how to treat people. We are grateful that we knew him, we’re inspired by his example, and we’re so, so sad that we are denied the joy of his friendship in years to come. Shaggy, we love you.
Matt
Country: Canada
Comments: Paul always had a way of brightening up every day. He was always smilling, and always laughing...and always willing to go for a quick beer at country road. I couldn't have asked for a better neighbour, Paul was always tons of fun, whether it was throwing me in the pool or just generally goofing around. I consider myself lucky to have met Paul, even if it was just for a short while. He was one of those people who could fit in with anybody, and he will never be forgotten. Cheers, Paul.
Name: Nat
Country: UK
Comments: At the very lowest time in my life I sent shags a 'sorry I've been AWOL, I've lost my mind' email... he immediately returned one saying 'Travel Agents.. tickets.. Bangkok... Now... I'll sort you out' a week later I'm stood at BKK with no idea what I'm doing there, but sharing a cab with shags back to Roots, knowing that he'll be true to his word.. I stayed for 3 weeks, drove him insane, came home, and 4 weeks later went back out there for 4 months. Shags gave me one of the best experiences of my life and I'm so glad that I got to spend so much time with him last year...
None of this seems very real, and I cant imagine how long it will take to truly sink in that I'll never receive a 'princess, come back, the federation needs you' email again...
Shags you were an absolute star and I'll miss you terribly... xx
Name: Peach
Country: UK
Comments: Well I really don't know where to start. As everyone below has written I too simply couldn't believe my ears when I heard the news about Shaggy. Despite not knowing him as well as many - he was still someone who I class as a true friend. He was generous to a fault and always the life and soul. The last time I saw him was my last day travelling over 3 years ago now. Yet despite having not seen him for a year or more, the gap was forgotten in an instant and he was kind enough to let me stay at his flat. Not to mention the fact that he managed to get me completely wasted meaning I nearly missed my flight back!
There's so much more that I simply cannot put into words.
Shaggy - wherever you are take it easy fella ( I know you will :) )
Name: Richard Peckover (Quint)
Country: U.A.E.
Comments: Many of the great things to say about Shaggy have already been said below. I will always remember him with a big smile on his face, an amazing appetite for living life to the full and a drink in his hands. God Bless you Shaggy
Name: Fraser Bush
Country: Canada
Comments: Paul was one of the funniest people i have ever met. In all of my travels, I have never met someone so full of life or so quick to help someone out when they needed it, whether it was picking one of his kids off the ground in class, or helping a buddy home after good nite out. He had the kind of personality that made people respect him, and made me want to be like him. I think a lot of people looked up to Paul at Fun Language, and of all the memories i have of Bangkok, times shared with Paul are always foremost in my mind. Khemass, country road, 4wheelin in the rainforest, koh samet, superbowl sunday were some of the best times that i got to share with paul, and it makes me sad that i will never raise another chang with the man from england who made everyone smile.
im gonna miss you man
peace
fraser
Name: Carley
Country: UK
Comments: No, not my blond brother.....Shaggy, you gave so much to this world and still had so much to give. One thing is for sure, you lived your life to the max, nothing could stop you. I hope there is something out there for you beyond this life, because it's not right that your life here has been cut so short. See you around buddy, I'll never forget you.
Name: Ben Ross
Country: England
Comments: For those of us left behind, a star has fallen. An irrepressible smile, an amazing ability to get along with all people and such passion for, and a true teacher of, life. So many good memories… Brother, you will be sorely missed. Love and Peace, Ben x
Name: Andrew Dearman (Flash)
Country: UK
Comments: Pleasure knowing you Shags. You were a legend at Aston, and you always will be. Laters - Flash
Country: England
Comments: See below. God bless, Shaggy. Paul D x
Country: England
Comments: When I heard the words "Shaggy died" I passed into a state of numb limbo. I pretty much stayed that way for the next week. The news really hit me on the eve of turning 30: two weeks before my fellow Scorpio, two weeks after we lost him. That night I cried because I could still see him in his shaggiest glory at Aston. He was wearing his Fresh 96 T-shirt, which was emblazoned with the words "We Are Family", a slogan he'd coined to welcome all students to the inclusive place he believed the Guild should be. He was striding across the Guild foyer and bustling through Einsteins; he was getting in the beers and he was having a good craic; he was running the Guild and he was making things happen. I hope that snapshot provides a flavour of Shaggy, a character I'd already heard volumes about before I met him in my first term at Aston. We had much in common: a thirst for Snakebite and Black ("Mate, get some Stella and Old Rosie Scrumpy in that glass. It'll blow yer tits off!"); a limitless capacity for smoking (I came off my crutches to celebrate Shaggy's 21st in Amsterdam, where we giggled in each other's faces and spluttered "I'm absolutely battered!" for hours on end; a deep passion for music (he introduced me to sounds as diverse as dub reggae, late 70s New Wave art-punk and the most blistering, piledriving Techno I've ever heard); but most importantly we shared a real desire to change things for the better (Shaggy was my predecessor as Vice President of Communications at the Guild and he played a large part in inspiring and encouraging me to stand for election - "Get invloved! You know it makes sense, mate!"). I last saw Shaggy in London in October 2002, when he'd flown back from Thailand to visit family and friends. It was really great to see him looking so fresh and happy, and it was with real pride that he showed me his photos of Thailand. I remember especially the pictures of his class looking at Teacher with rapt attention. Shaggy had an innate gift for languages and communicating with people, and I believe in Thailand he had found his true calling. I will always remember our fine talk about life last year and his immortal words: "Be content without the bullshit content." I really think that says it all. I also hope the following verse can give us some comfort amid the sadness we feel for having lost such a kind and soulful human being.
I AM NOT THERE
Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there; I did not die.
Name: Jamie Trigg (Beaver)
Country: England
Comments: It’s great to read these tributes & find much of what I wanted to say expressed so well by others. I met Shaggy one afternoon in Einstein’s during my first year at Aston, introduced through shared friends. Shaggy was part of so many people’s lives - meeting him was to find the central piece of a social jigsaw.
When I think of Shaggy my memories are of good times and a wonderful friend – someone who’d listen when things were tough & party when they weren’t. I have fond memories of times at Aston – drinking sessions, guild nights, late night curries, or just kicking back at home. I recall a charity slave auction in our final year where our house jointly bid for Shaggy’s services. Our intention was to prevent Shaggy having to do any genuine work for someone else. When we won the auction Shaggy’s duties involved arriving at our house party extra early, helping everyone get really messy, then waking up the next morning & starting again! He was definitely the best form of home help we could have asked for!
Like many, after Aston we ignored the fact that we were no longer students. Midweek beers moved to The Shakespeare, but the theme remained the same. We schemed together to encourage Tom out (because we love you TC!). Summer time meant the Glastonbury festival, an experience we shared on several occasions. Glastonbury suited Shaggy’s outlook on life - freedom, peace, friendship & entertainment. I remember arriving one year with a change of clothes & some beers – Shaggy had a tent, vital supplies & a plan for getting in. The whole weekend was organised inside a 2 minute phone call when he managed to convince me that the weathermen were liars, mud was good for the soul, and the only place to be was on a farm in Somerset. It was one of my favourite festivals. Shaggy woke me one morning with a round of tea & cakes having just arrived back from an all nighter in the dance tent. “Mate, get your laughing gear around this – it’ll sort you right out!” – it certainly did, what a magic way to start the day!
In 2001 I visited Shaggy in Thailand. It was great to find him so happy & content with life. I spent a few days on the island of Ko Chang, on Shaggy’s recommendation - it was one of his favourite destinations to relax. The island is beautiful – small, quiet, covered in palm trees & with just a single mud road to get around. Watching the sun set from the beach in the evening was one of the highlights of the trip. It’s nice to think he found peace on a paradise island he loved so much.
Farewell Shaggy, one of the finest. Beav x
Name: Tom Sheehan
Country: London.
Comments: It's all been said here below, how fondly we remember the shaggy blond locks that gave him his name, the insane toothy grin, the beer-swilling, toking, curry-munching, stuff of legend. I'll always remember meeting him in Covent Garden years ago and his excitement and enthusiasm over a job he was going for, marketing Guinness in the Cameroon! And how natural and typical of him it seemed to hear in his e-mails how he was traipsing round Thailand and then living and working there.
My deepest sympathies go out to Paul's family and his girlfriend in Thailand.
Thanks to those who set this site up and gave us the chance to remember him together.
Shaggy, we'll miss you and love you always, thanks for having graced us with your presence.
Skanky-Tom.
Name: Laura Kinch
Country: UK
Comments: My happpiest memories of you, Shaggy, all involve laughing until it really really hurts and smiling a lot. I will miss you so much. You were one in a million, someone who wanted to make a difference and did. You will inspire me to do more of that too and I am honoured that you were my friend. Big hugs from LLama 2 xxxx
Name: David Wallis
Country: USA
Comments: I recently returned from Paul's funeral and memorial service in Thailand. What was so moving there was the number of people who attended. There must have been way over 100 people at each service. Also coming through were the overwhelming feelings of love, remorse and regret that Paul had been taken away.
My feeling running through the ceremonies was that his and my roles should have been reversed. I regret not seeing as much of him as I would have liked, however, I was lucky enough to see him in January at the school where he taught. I have never seen him so happy. He was where he wanted to be and the children loved him, hanging onto his trousers, going "Mr. Teacher Paul, Mr. Teacher Paul."
Paul, thanks for everything and goodbye.
Name: Lisa
Country: England
Comments: As a child I thought having an older brother was fabulous. Paul was always an adult in my eyes and very cool.
Paul didn't view having a little sister in quite the same light. I was the pain in the neck who pinched his lego and invaded his room to wind him up.
I remember saying to him many times, "but you used to like me when i was little!". This was true, i have photos of Paul holding me as a baby to prove it. My plea was always met with a grunt and a glare, but i knew deep down he loved me really.
Because of the 7 year age gap between us, I was just beginning secondary school as Paul was setting off for life at University. During this time we became like chalk and cheese and had little in common. Except for our ability to 'talk the hind legs off a donkey', of course.
However, over the past few years we both seemed to warm to the idea of being siblings. We e-mailed regularly and Paul stayed with me during several of his visits to the UK.
In a relatively short space of time I developed a deep admiration and respect for my brother. He was living in a country he loved, doing the job he loved. And he had met Pat, the woman he loved. He had some fantastic friends too.
I am heartbroken at losing my brother. But i am thankful for all the tears, tantrums, hugs and 'mares' we shared. I just wish we didn't have to stop sharing them so soon.
Paul, I will love and miss you forever. It was an honour to be your little sister. xxx
Name: Anne Moloney
Country: UK
Comments: I found out about 48 hours ago. It still hasn't sunk in, I don't want to believe that it's really happened. But it has, so I guess all I can say is thank you for being kind, loving, funny and generous. Thank you for making me laugh, making me feel like family during my time at Aston, for listening to me, and for having the most infectious grin ever. Most of all, thank you for being the fantastically unique Shagstar. Gonna miss you xx
Name: Snail
Country: France
Comments: My first reaction when Shaggy offered me his flat in Marseille was 'Top…nice one dude'. When I arrived and found smashed windows from where the French Riot Police had pumped tear gas in to disperse the enormous group of friends that had gathered for his leaving party I thought '..you complete bastard!!'.
In a way it is fitting though - life was generally riotous when he was around. I had the pleasure of seshing with Shagstar in numerous places in Europe - large ones in Barcelona, Madrid, Paris, Amsterdam, Marseille - a 4-day large one of biblical proportions "..this is as close as I'll get to religion mate...", and of course back in Blighty whether larging down the Que Club at Atomic Jam or Ultimate Orange, getting very messy at Glastonbury or simply hoovering beers down Einsteins the man was a true pleasure in every sense of the word.
I have tried to reason or understand what has happened to the big man....and can't, so, although the pain we are all feeling is so very real at the moment, I will try hard to not get depressed - I will live life hard and fast as he did and in doing so make sure his light never darkens, his rants never quieten, his energy never fades, just as we'll all make sure his memory stays strong forever.
Messieurs Olivier da Killa and Picou The Door and I had an impromptu send-off for him when we heard about Shaggy – large it ‘til dawn ….ils sont où les francais?! I hope you found it to your liking mate.
I miss you 'fiston', the party will be quieter without you but we'll catch up one day. Give it large, long and loud and as he did; live the dream.
Name: ben henneman
Country: england
Comments: i'd like to big you up big man, for bringing good times, ridiculous memories and blinding experiences. from blagging for our lives at the birmingham sun, largin it at the que club and finally hearing about your thai experiences. keep on that laughing and ranting and you'll be the star in the otherworld that you've been here. i, like all the people here, will miss you a lot. you were a great friend. see you shaggy.
Name: Claire (Churchward, now Paisley)
Country: UK
Comments: I'll keep this fairly short. Shaggy, still hasn't really sunk in yet - can't help but write as if you're still here. We caught up sporadically but when we did we talked until the cows came home and generally giggled like fools! I still remember the last time I saw your grin (just before you went to Thailand) - I was really happy you found a good place to be. Thanks for being a special mate, for making it (eventually!) to my wedding, and generally putting a smile on my face over the last 11 years - you'll be sorely missed, x
Name: Richard Evans
Country: UK
Comments: Who else would argue that the Grande Nachos he had just been served weren't 'Grande' enough?
After 20 minutes frantic discussion, the end result, was a wry smile from the manager and his money back.
Quite simply a lovely bloke! I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of time I spent with him and for those times I thank him.
My thoughts go out to his family and those who were closest to him, please accept my condolence.
Name: Sherry Abuel-Ealeh
Country: UK
Comments: In the last few weeks, Shaggy’s face keeps on popping into my head, and it’s usually ringed by that cheap, blue-stained MDF window frame in my office door at Warwick. When I’m on a train, I keep on thinking that I’m an idiot for actually buying a ticket – I should just sit in the skanky toilet like Shaggy did for months on that daily Brum-Cov-Brum commute. When I tell my friends that I want to watch The Bill before heading to the pub, I want them to strop off in that comedy way that Shaggy always did when I told him that 3.45pm was a bit early for me to be knocking off work (even though he never found it hard to convince me). And when I’m in an argument, I want the other person to rant at me like Shaggy would if I were foolish enough to ask him about advertising for the Word – or even worse, the Boar.
But it’s not going to happen – not just because he’s gone, but because no-one ever could do it in the same way as the Shagmeister. He was such a massive part of my time at Warwick, and it’s really difficult to put that into words; it was the face at the window, spurring you on to be naughty; the ‘beast’ that he was having that was always bigger than yours (and usually the salary advance that he was having that was bigger than yours); and the time he still had for you when he was having a rough one too. Oh, mate. I’m glad you were finally doing something that made you happy, and that you had (as ever) a shed-load of people around you that loved you. I just hope that you’re sat up there in the big ol’ computer room in the sky going, ‘Mate, check this out – there’s a whole website dedicated to me!’. Love ya. Sx.
Name: Andy LaGette
Country: England
Comments: We all have a few "best friends". A measure of his charm and appeal is that so many people from different walks of life count Shaggy amongst their very best. His love of life was contagious, and his ability to find quality time for so many people as a shoulder to cry on, a drinking buddy, a teacher... or whatever was asked of him, was truly admirable. That he is chilling out on his special cloud at such an early age is a tragic loss for us to bear; but I know that those 30 years he had with us couldn't have been spent better, and he'll have few if any regrets about what was truly a memorable ride. While those he leaves behind may have little else in common, we can all say that we are a little better for having known him.
Shaggy, you were one of life's good guys... a true gent. I miss you loads. Maybe one day I'll understand why you were taken so early... If heaven is a pub, bagsy us all a big table, and get one in for me. We'll meet again one day.
Name: Gwilym Gibbons
Country: Scotland
Comments: The words “Oh mate…” ring out in my mind when I think of Shaggy. Often used as a term of empathy in his way that was so genuine and warm, or sometimes as an expression of his own “pisser of day” that he had just had. During my time at Warwick he was a close friend and colleague founded in the first few days, as someone who made a real effort to welcome me to Warwick. Although, I suspect initially, the location of my office may have helped (close to the bar). I recall the many times he would appear at my office door, with a cheeky grin and the immortal words “pint at five?”. Shaggy was committed to ensuring social interaction took place within the small community that was the Union; emails would fall into inboxes to round up the troops on a daily basis. I will remember Shaggy as someone who brought people together, made people laugh and someone who always found time to be there with and for others.
The last few months at Warwick were not easy for Shaggy. As the “Oh mate” increasingly became a phrase of despair, I remember feeling that his pending departure, although a wholly healthy one for him, was a moment when he appeared lost, not sure what he wanted to do or where wanted to be next. I had the unenviable task of taking his keys and helping him clear his office the Christmas he left - not least because in true Shaggy style, I had to open up the Union after Christmas shut down to let him make his final departure preparations.
It is of great comfort, that as his emails testify, he found that place he wanted to be and do what he wanted to do…
In short a he was simply lovely man… ‘Oh mate’.
Name: Helen Timbrell
Country: Scotland
Comments: Shaggy and I had nothing in common. At work at Warwick we were opposite in every way, apart, I guess, from some (probably misguided) belief in what we did and wanting it done “right”. But for some reason, we got on and eventually spent a lot of time together. Without a shadow of a doubt, as a direct result of his influence during that time, he changed the way I led my life. Grant’s got it right when he says he was inspirational. Shaggy made me reassess everything that was important and made me feel like I could do and be anything I wanted. As a result I made some tough decisions and when I did I can remember him telling me how proud he was and us laughing at how ridiculous that sounded. I have so many vivid, happy and inspiring memories of the stupid things we did – stupid things he made me do, more accurately – and of just hours and hours of doing nothing, but doing it together. Endless texts, emails, his face through the glass window in my office door and always trying to get me to do more things we shouldn’t. He was a clever, funny, silly, caring, generous, brave and uplifting spirit of a bloke who always just needed to spot that tenner till payday. It’s like I used to say to him after we’d both moved on – It may be over now, but I wouldn’t have missed it for the world… x
Name: Grant Harrison
Country: UK
Comments: I only knew Shaggy for a short time at Warwick while I was a lazy freeloading teenager, and more like a student than one of the shirt and tie brigade - Shaggy was more in touch with us youngsters than anyone who worked for the Union.
I didn't see or keep in touch with Shaggy after he left Warwick, but he really is one of those people who sticks in your mind even if you only met him for a few minutes. In those few minutes his enthusiasm, humour and character would wash over you and leave a lasting impression. Not many people deserve the word inspirational to sum them up, but for me Shaggy is undoubtedly one of them - he made people feel good. Thanks, and as always, Cheers.
Name: nan
Country: england
Comments: allways in my heart and thoughts forever god bless my dear GRANDSON
Name: Katharine
Country: England
Comments: Writing a tribute to shaggy is not an easy thing to do as there are so many memories which seem to personify everything about him. I met shaggy in my first year at Aston and he was part of my life there for the next four years. Sadly our paths didn't cross too much since leaving Aston although I knew when I heard he had gone to Thailand that this was the perfect place for him. Always one to listen to problems, find you copies of old coursework to copy and of course be bouncing around in that stupid hat that was about 10 metres long. I still remember the day he turned up at my flat having chopped his hair off, he spent about 1 week trying to convince himself that the floppy office worker style worked before reaching for the clippers...good move
Shaggy was a great friend to me for a long time and its difficult to come to terms with the fact that we won't meet again, not as we know it anyway.
We're all thinking if you shagster, take it easy, as i know without a doubt you will be. My mum was also upset on hearing the news, i'm sure that hearing this you will give a wink and try and wind me up again...! lots of love x x
Name: Pete Cuff
Country: UK
Comments: I 'worked' with Shaggy at Warwick Students' Union during 00/01. When the big lights called me down to London, I realised why I felt so sad about leaving the place: there just wouldn't be any Shaggy's. Perhaps as testiment to him, or that I'm not clever enough to hold down a job in the City, I now find myself working at King's College SU...
When The Shagster went over to Thailand, most people couldn't believe what he was doing... And then they thought about it for a while, and realised that it made perfect sense. Shaggy never seemed quite at ease with an office desk infront of him. For some strange reason, I seemed to locate Shaggy in the bar more times than his office...
We stayed in touch by email over the last couple of years, and I will miss the loveable swine: have some well deserved rest, El Shaggo...
Name: Pob
Country: UK
Comments: I know, I'm shit at staying in touch. Something like this really hits home. I remember Shaggy as a giant hairy bloke who you would never approach on a dark night, but if you did he was the kindest person you'll ever meet. He always had time for you, always stopped for a chat and was genuinely interested. It's getting silly. First Daz and now Shaggy. It's true, you don't know how much you'll miss someone until they're gone. I hadn't been in touch with him for years, but now I can't stop thinking about him. Shaggy, wherever you are, take care, chill out (you'll have no trouble with that one), all the best.
Name: mancub (chris dutta)
Country: UK
Comments: shaggy, wherever you are now, i just wanna say thank you... you were an amazing bloke to know, from the moment i met you in freshers week at uni (good old stafford tower) to the times we used to bump into each other at random festivals...always a smile on your face, i will never forget my last night in bangkok, being locked in that crazy little club watching dj 'spidermonkey'...a pleasure, as always.
Name: Dickie
Country: Japan
Comments: I hadn't seen you for years, yet all those memories of you lighting up the bar at Aston came flooding back. Wherever you are now, I'm sure it's better place with your presence.
Name: Sigsy
Country: Japan
Comments: You lived fast
You died young
You are my rock n roll hero
Love the flame-haired temptress XXXXXXXXXX
Name: P
Country: UK
Comments: And the words that he spoke seemed the wisest of
philosophies, There's nothing ever gained from a wet thing called
a tear. When the world is too dark and I need some light inside
of me I'll go into a bar and drink fifteen pints of beer. Love always
amigo, go well.
Name: Mac McPherson
Country: London, UK
Comments: I still can't believe it, knowing the shagster he is sitting on his cloud with a big bifter in his hand looking over us with a big smile on his face.
I can't remember one time in the 10 or so years I've known Shaggy when we haven't had a great time. So many happy memories of me and him munching a balti every night for weeks on end, smoking ourselves to oblivion in all sorts of places, kidnapping him and taking him to the Dam.....sending a burn your bed postcard the morning after I'd burnt my bedroom down (got him back made him clean the ceiling at 8am) drinking Snakie B, the list is endless. All happy memories that I will keep with me forever.
We have lost one of the most truly genuine, mad, lovely people I've certainly ever had the priveldge to meet but I'm sure he would want us to celebrate his life in style and not mope around.
As a dj and promoter I would very much like to put on a big night in Shaggy's honour. All profits could be send to Thailand (maybe to his school or something) Anyone interested in helping me, please give me a shout. TOM C????
MAC
Name: Alf Collett
Country: Thailand
Comments: Paul’s death has been an awful shock to a lot of us here in Bangkok and although I’ve only known him for a relatively short time (2 and a half years) he was one of my closest friends. He came on my stag night and our Thai wedding. Never did I dream I would be going to his Thai funeral. The gap that Paul’s departure has left in all of our lives is enormous, but what he has added to all that knew him should also be recognised. I will always cherish our chats about music, the CDs we shared and the happy ‘Happy Hours’ at the Country Road and other places.
Paul used to stay with us at the weekends when visiting from Nakorn Pathom and one thing he was famous for were his ‘rants’. He used to come back from the pub or work seething with the latest injustices. At the time they were a distraction from his kind, loving and happy self but in retrospect it was an integral part of Paul. Paul would never settle for second best, he would never ignore someone acting unfairly or just get on with a bad job without kicking up a fuss. He wanted to put the world to rights, and with every rant came action to resolve/improve the situation. Little by little Paul made his world and the world of all that knew him a better place and I am forever grateful to him. Paul, you will live on in all the lives you have touched. Cheers captain! – Alf.
Name: sarah
Country: england
Comments: Well ive just written an email to someone special in my life about life and death.
On the 13th November I already had it lined up to raise a glass to another bloody wonderful dead bloke. Then I get this message just about half an hour ago.
Its slowly sinking in.
I was saying that now it has been so long since I last saw Shaggy that it was just shock value that got me holding my hand over my mouth and staring at the words on the screen in silence.
But ive been reading the comments here and im remembering him the better for it. The years at Aston basically, and the odd brief encounter after that time. Certainly the phrases are audible in my head, his voice… surely he just entered the room no?!
No it seems he has departed, but from the sounds of things he just kept on smiling.
Quote from my recent email…
“All this comes to serve as a reminder of the fragility and preciousness of this one life we get here.
I had a strange moment in a taxi in Poland the other day where I felt unafraid to die at that moment (the driver was a bit of a lunatic as they often are) because I feel so alive now and in that moment of realisation.
This life comes but once for us mere mortals, fortunately.
We have to live it whilst we have it, time only goes forwards and continues.
And somewhere in the strange mists of time and circumstance there lurks a time for us all, and when it comes you don’t have much left to fight it with, you just have to keep going with the flow.
But there is no fear to be had in that place, as with anywhere on this earth, only acceptance and acceptance comes much easier if you know damn well you LIVED your life, didn’t just let it pass you by like it was happening to someone else, life is now and always will be, you just have to open yourself to it and let go of all the daily shit that every moment can come so close to dragging us down…
Fear of what we didn’t say or didn’t do or didn’t make of ourselves, fear that in our moment of ultimate mortality, we forgot something, namely, our life….
And basically I want to burn out not rust out and never lose my respect for this thing ive got, its called my time, my everything, from the hands that type to the mouth that never shuts the hell up to the fact that I can meet people and share with people…
This is starting to sound very corny and if I go on almost religious and preachy and that really would be bloody awful.”
-Maybe its all the work in nursing homes and dementia units that makes you see death as a matter of fact, bloody painful one, but fact all the same.
It’s the life that is really important, not so much the death
And that’s certainly something Shaggy realised, he certainly lived and breathed every moment of his life, he took his life and his time and made it his own, and lived it to the full.
I raise a pint to you mate, well a cheeky alf actually, you crazy arsed shagster you!
Name: Laura Jones
Country: UK
Comments: Like most people I've spoken to over the last week, my first reaction on getting that horrible phone call, was total disbelief. It's a cliche, I know, but how could someone that full of life be dead? It is slowly beginning to sink in, but it's still - and I think always will be - hard to believe. I met Shaggy in my first year at Aston and was lucky enough to live with him in my final year - and his year last year working there. If all of us were to write down every brilliant memory we have of him, I know we'd force this webstie to crash - there are so many... Sitting up all night planning how we'd sort things out and change the world over Pastis; having a peanut butter eating competition with Llama 2, until none of us could breathe let alone speak; Shaggy phoning the ITN newsdesk to complain that they'd spent half their bulletin reporting that the Queen Mum had a cold - "Mate, I've had a cold all week - and I've had to go into work - BEHAVE!!!". Most of all though, I'll remember that cheeky grin, the warm smile and the BIG HUGS. He had a huge heart and as we all know, was more interested in the really important things in life - friendship, fairplay and fun - than the materialistic world of pensions, mortgages and getting up early in the morning! Shaggy was never one to say no - to a cheeky half (of whatever!), a night out - or to totally committing himself to something he really believed in. The last time I saw him was last October, when a few of us met him off the train after he'd been home for a couple of days. He looked great - life in Thailand was suiting him. He was tanned, full of life, full of stories and plans and with a rucksack full of Evisu jeans to flog. His death is a huge loss to all of us. But following on from Tom's comment about him blagging us all into the Pearly gates at some point, (which made me cry a lot), I like to think of him in that party already -having it large and getting to know some like minded souls. Lucky them. I miss you Shags, Laura xxxx
Name: Yan Picou-Laporte
Country: France
Comments: Hard to express his own feelings, very frustated and feel like god stole us "SOMEONE" .
Shaggy will keep in my mind as someone who likes the life, who enjoys his friends with a smily heart. I shared couple of good moments with him in Aston and all the lads...Is a part of my history and experience in England, he will be always in my heart and memory.
Thanks Shaggy for the time we spent together, keep the style as you always done!!!!!!!
See you "cousin"
Yan
Name: Chris Priest
Country: England
Comments: Despite the prevailing feeling of sadness that accompanies this great loss, I shall be left with some great memories of the way Shaggy touched my life. I knew him since he corrupted me as a young fresher and taught me the art of work avoidance down in Einsteins. He was an integral part of many of the best memories I have over the last decade, adding so much value and ensuring that the evening always ended in chaos, whether it was in Marseilles, Madrid, at the Jam, or more recently, when I spent some time with him in Thailand.
I feel privileged to have been able to spend some quality time with him and Pat in Bangkok and Nakhom Pathom, getting to see for myself the country he loved and see how full of life it made him feel. I believe that Shaggy had found the place where he wanted to be and somebody he wanted to be with. I also know what a great impression he left on my girlfriend Alison during our time over there.
It hard to say the words that sum up the loss we all feel, but we must focus on the positives, so I'd like to remember you with a big smile on your face, supping on a bottle of Chang. Thank you mate, you made my life better for knowing you and your spirit will live on in me and all those people who knew you! Cheers mate!
Name: Jan Kewley
Country: England
Comments: Shaggy was charm personified. I first really got to know him at a low point in his life, leaving the Aston Guild. Yet he instantly won my confidence and that of pretty much everyone who worked with me. Yes, he was a bloody nightmare to 'manage' - too laid back, too fond of his social life, ALWAYS late... But in a funny way he was also easy - I could talk to him as an equal and a friend, he had no truck with hierarchies or job descriptions. So we became friends rather than colleagues, and stayed that way long after we both left Warwick. More recently, it was lovely after a struggle into work, to turn on MSN Messenger, and have a cheery "you beauty!" pop up on the screen because Shags was bored doing his end-of-the-day paperwork. Long, disjointed and funny conversations that I'll deeply miss. I used to call him my lil' bruv, I was his big sis. I miss him terribly. Jan x
Name: Kieran Bolger
Country: England
Comments: A week or so on, and it is still difficult to comprehend this terrible blow life has dealt us. What makes it easier is that there are countless of you all feeling the same, and that beneath the sadness we can smile and feel happy that a wonderful man like Shaggy was a part of our lives. We first met at Aston University, and I have my own fond memories of our time spent together. Putting the world to rights over a cheeky half in Einsteins, singing uproariously in Manzil's curry house at 3 O'clock in the morning, sitting on the Guild steps after the May Ball and watching the sun rise in our dinner jackets, hitting the bars and clubs of Madrid on a wave of euphoria....the list goes on!! Then there's the memories I'm sure we all have collectively: a warm, kind-hearted soul, who always met you with that cheeky, mischievous grin and a massive sense of fun. He probably packed more into his twenty-nine years than many of us will in a lifetime. No matter that I have only seen him a handful of times over the last few years - I can comfort myself with the fact that Shaggy's friendship transcended time and geography, and that although he was thousands of miles away, he was in a place he loved and called Home. Shags, it was an honour to have been your friend and I'm gonna miss you. God bless mate. Kiers x
Name: Zoë GW
Country: England
Comments: Wally Wal and I first met aged 14 in a German class. Back then he still had short hair and the name Shaggy had not yet been born! We went on to do German and French A-Level together-two of only three students for German! A-Levels were a 'mare as I recall but studying with Wally Wal was always a laugh; he made it a lot of fun and sometimes risky (like when he snuk up to my bedroom at school before breakfast to go through homework!). I couldn't believe it when we ended up going to Aston together, in fact we were four floors apart in Lawrence Tower for our first year! It was at Aston where he really blossomed. The parameters set by school were too limiting, at uni he could truly be himself and stand up for what he believed in without constraint. He was an unbelievably popular guy at Aston; I don't think I knew anyone else there who had so many friends, was involved in so many clubs and societies and still found time to go wild in places like Wobble and The Institute.
We lost touch over the past couple of years. I heard about his antics in Thailand through old school and uni friends and always knew that whenever we met again the time wouldn't matter - because he was a true friend and we had come a long way together. It may be a long time before we meet again but I expect he'll have a cheeky one waiting! I'll miss you Wally Wal, but my life is all the better for having known you. Lots of love xx
Name: Dave 5N
Country: England
Comments: Funny - a week on and I seem to have said so much to so many people about this awful, dreadful thing, and I still can't find the right words. Shaggy was the brother I never had, a mate, a colleague and an inspiration. When I think of him, I see that warm, welcoming grin & I hear him offering a "cheeky couple".
He was my son Josef's godfather. As this mostly involved doing things for and with someone, he naturally excelled at it. Especially elephant rides. We have albums of postcards he sent Joe from Thailand; pictures and souvenirs, but most of all we have the most wonderful memories. Even in the sadness, I smile when I think of him, his scrapes and escapades. We missed him when he went to Thailand but we knew how happy he was there, and we didn't mind missing him too much.
There's an enormous hole in our lives, but we're so proud of him.
Laters Uncle Shaggy.
Name: Stephane Gautron
Country: Canada
Comments: It is with great shock and sadness that I write this passage, with regards to the passing away of such a great and gentle soul. I first met Paul in Bangkok, as he was a teacher with Fun languages. I was lucky to get to know Paul as we traveled together in eastern Thailand(ie. Kanchanaburi and later Sangklaburi) . We had such great times in Bankok, as he seemed to turn the environment of a busy city into a peaceful garden. I am shocked that life has brought about this sad turn of events, since Paul was such a genuine and kindhearted person. I will always remember our adventures together, as he always wore a smile and made everyone around him feel welcomed. I send giant hugs and condolences to his family (that I have never met, but heard much about-peace and love!) and to all his friends( I know what a giant loss this is to you, also-peace and love!), specifically to Pat and James who were so close to him before his departure. I wish you all well. I send you much love and strength in the face of such hardship. I will always remember the smiles he would leave on the faces of children and how dedicated he was to his work. I love you Shaggy! The world has lost one of its sweetest and finest creations.
Adieu, khun Paul.
Stephane Gautron,
Name: Tom Conniffe
Country: England
Comments: I sit here some nine days after finding out the news about one of my closest friends in all the world. A man to whom I could tell anything, who knew pretty much all there was worth knowing about me. And so little of what has happened makes sense, so little has sunk in yet.
I first met Paul on his first day in Birmingham. I was walking up the stairs in Aston Student's Guild when this bundle of long blond hair and came walking towards me with a huge grin on its face. Time to say hello to another newbie. "Where are you from?" I asked. "Near Corby in Northamptonshire" he replied. "Do you 'smoke'?" I asked. "Not half!" he exclaimed. And thus a beautiful friendship was born.
I have enjoyed over eleven mad years with a man I came to know and love like a brother. It did not matter that for four of those years we lived in different parts of the world; each time I saw him the preceding gap since we last met melted away in an instant. Paul was a once-in-a-lifetime friend. The man lit up the room with his energy and enthusiasm, indeed his very zest for life. And now he has left us.
Ah, but what memories! The Orb at the Institute and the carnage afterwards at Nelson Road, running OddSoc (one of the music societies at Aston), meeting him in Amsterdam in 1994 for his 21st, when he'd travelled from Marseille and a big group of us from Birmingham and London (you can guess the rest), us side by side giving it some from the stage at Atomic Jam ("come on then, let's 'aaaaave it!"), the "starving dogs", the mudbath at Homelands in 2000, himself playing Cupid and introducing me to the woman I love, being pushed in the sea off Koh Samui on my 30th birthday, "munters", him turning up to stay with us a day early in London last year and us marching him straight out to Bedrock until five the following morning... And the drunken long-distance phone calls. Oh yes, there were plenty of those. That man could talk the hind legs off a donkey.
There's an old saying that your friends are a mirror to yourself. Well, the highest compliment Paul paid me was to be my friend all those years. It is an honour and a privilege to count him among my number. He enriched my life and that of so many others. We are all the poorer for his departure.
I can just see him now with his foot wedged in the gates of heaven, giving God's own doorman St. Peter some blag... "Hoi, maaaate, I've got some friends coming later... will you let them in for free?"
God bless you Shags. And thanks for everything.
THC x
Name: Jon Morgan
Country: UK
Comments: Words really can't express the loss that we're all feeling right now. Shaggy meant a lot to a lot of people. He was one of those people that even if you met him only once you would still remember him fondly. I was lucky enough to know him over a number of years. In that time we shared a lot of great times, as well as a lot of lows. Throughout all of it, he never changed.
Recently, I caught up with him in Thailand when I was over there on holiday. Still nothing had changed. He was still loving life, had befriended even more people and was the same old Shaggy. Needless to say we shared a few "cheeky halves"! Initially, that made it even more difficult for me when I heard the news. It was only 3 weeks since I'd seen him. Now, I'm so glad that I got the chance to catch up with him one last time in the place he called Home.
Shaggy, it was a privilege to have known you and be considered a friend. I miss you and will never forget you. Take Care
Jon
Name: wasana kumanuwong
Country: Thailand
Comments: Hi guys,Thank you set this up. It's nice to know
there are many people who loved him and I am the one who loved him.
I'm happy to say that He will be in my heart forever. Thanks
Name: james
Country: Thailand
Comments: What do you say here? Thanks to those of you who
have set this up. I realise that many of you don't know me but i
have been living and loving Thailand with Shaggy for the last 3
years of my life and I can assure you he was at home here and so
happy.We were best mates over here and fate seemed to move us to
the same town so that we could live in paradise forever. Now that
is not the case, but I am still here and will keep his memory with
me everywhere I go. No more space left.See you later Shags
|
|
